One of the most sought after experiences for any traveler to Bangkok is a proper Thai massage. Spas and massage parlours pepper the streets of Bangkok and range from very, very cheap to wonderfully upscale and decadent. For first time visitors, the cheap corner parlours may be too intimidating, especially if you’re familiar with Bangkok’s seedier reputation.
While I personally love my local corner parlour (and have never had any unwanted encounters), there are definite benefits to choosing a mid- or high-range spa for your first pampering.
Lady Iron Chef has listed 11 great options for anyone looking for a luxurious spa experience. The article includes contact and location details and the breakdown of the costs so you can plan within your budget.
For example, you can go with a more cost-friendly option at, the Lady Iron Chef recommends:
Chang Foot Massage & Spa
There are several Chang outlets, and though the experiences are pretty much hit-and-miss, we like this place for its convenience and friendly price list. We’ve tried both their Thai massage and Foot Reflexology, and while the “standard” really depends on the therapists, we can safely say that they are generally commendable for their foot reflexology.
At THB 250 per hour, your feet will thank you for that much-needed rub! Certain outlets open till really late too, so you can definitely pop by before supper.
Address: Siam Square Soi 6
Tel: +66 2 654 6339
Operation hours: Daily (10am – Midnight)
Nearest BTS: Siam
A top tip from us at Zafigo:
Many of the low-cost ‘spas’ may not be anything like you’re expecting if you visualise tranquility and privacy when you hear the word ‘spa’. Typical Thai massage parlours are more like communal beatings. You and your fellow victims will be given clean and comfortable tunics and trousers to change into before lying side by side on mats in a large open room. The masseuse will then pound and prod and bend you into what we affectionately call “lazy man’s yoga”, often while chatting with the masseuse next to you. This is may go against what you expect from a ‘spa’ but it is a wonderful and actually relaxing Thai tradition as long as you know what to expect ahead of time!
If you want to go all out for a more European style massage or for various trendy beauty treatments, the Lady Iron Chef recommends:
Luxsa Spa, Hansar Hotel Bangkok
This is quite a hidden gem. Hansar Hotel at Ratchadamri is actually one of our favourites in Bangkok, and its Luxsa Spa is definitely unrivalled. The moment you set foot on the “wellness level”, you are in sanctuary. The therapists will take you through their various spa programmes and offerings, you pick your treatments from the extensive menu, and your pampering begins.
Set your mind free, soothe your senses, luxuriate in the holistic treatments and bid your stress and worries goodbye. Luxsa Spa does not come cheap, but it will be money well spent. Its signature Eastern Blend Massage is highly recommended.
Address: 3/250 Soi Mahadlekluang 2 Rajdamri Road, Hansar Hotel Bangkok
Tel: +66 2 209 1234
Nearest BTS: Ratchadamri
Website: www.hansarbangkok.com/luxsa-spa
Or for another well-known top-of-the-line spa experience, try:
So Spa, Sofitel So Bangkok
Luxury spa options in Bangkok is aplenty, but if we have to streamline our options, then So Spa at the gorgeous Sofitel So Bangkok is in. The environment is one so inviting and we feel invigorated the moment we set foot on that level. Quiet and serene, with the scent of essential oil burning in the air.
The signature treatments include So Exhilarating Body Massage (THB 2,950/60 minutes), So Rejuvenating Facial (THB 3,200/60 minutes). For the ultimate experience, try the Turkish Hamman bath (THB 5,900/150 minutes) which combines a detoxifying hot steam, body scrub, body wrap and a Moroccan massage.
Address: 2 North Sathorn Road, Bangrak, Sofitel So Bangkok
Tel: +66 2 624 0000
Operation hours: Daily (10am – 10pm)
Nearest BTS: Sala Daeng
Website: www.sofitel-so-bangkok.com/so-spa
The Lady Iron Chef also recommends Let’s Relax Spa and Urban Retreat, which are two chain spas that many visitors find the right balance between affordable and luxurious.
For travellers with a little more time and an interest in learning more about traditional Thai massage, you can get messages and lessons at:
Watpo Thai Traditional Massage School
The birthplace of traditional Thai massage, Watpo is as old school as you can find. Sitting within Wat Pho – the Temple of the Reclining Buddha – Watpo offers authentic Thai body massages at THB 420 per hour.
If you are keen to learn more about Thai massage, take up a course here – from a 5-day beginners introduction course to a 5-week professional Thai massage therapy course, you can start honing your skills.
Address: 392/33-34 Maharach rd., Prabarommaharajawang, Pranakorn
Tel: 0 2622 3551, 0 2622 3533
Website: www.watpomassage.com
To see all 11 recommendations, check out the link below.
Read full article:
11 best Thai massage and spas in Bangkok to pamper yourself
Reposted from: Lady Iron Chef
Picture credits: Lady Iron Chef
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